Hi, new here, but have been browsing for a while. This seems like a very informed group of people when it comes to this matter.
Ok so I plan on using this tv mainly for movies/ps3/sports. Right now I'm trying to decide between the Sony KDL-40V2500 40" Bravia V-Series 1080p LCD HDTV or the 42" vizio on sale right now at costco, Item # 249442.
When it comes to price I can get the sony shipped for only about $60 more than the vizio.

For what I plan on doing, gaming/movies/regular tv watching, are either of these good choices? Are there any known problems with either? Are there any other models you could recommend over these two, that are still in the same price range?

Also since Im still new to this, right now I have comcast cable through a coaxial cable, and where I stay during the summer I have a direct tv box, non high def. Will I still be able to receive all of the channels, or will I need to purchase an outside tuner of some sort?

Sorry for so many questions, I just don't want to mess up with a big purchase like this.

The Sony, and yes you can see all the DirectTV or cable channels. But I don't know if it's worth upgrading if you're not going HD - standard pictures are only so-so on HD sets, though with a 40" it might be okay (smaller screens look sharper)

Most would chose Sony over Vizio. You should get an HD cable/sat box anywhere you want to use the tv if you want to see HD tv. Go thru the threads and find the ones about each tv you are considering for much more information on their abilities.

If you can get the Sony for only $60 more, then IMO it's a no brainer. Get the Sony. Vizio's not a bad set, but not in the league of Sony.
I assume you are talking about the Vizio for $949 after $150 rebate. $1010 sounds like a great price for the Sony. IMO